Get to know Ronwen Williams: key facts about the South African goalkeeper
Ronwen Williams is a South African footballer who has become one of Africa's most well-known goalkeepers. His path began in Port Elizabeth, and he now captains his club and country.
Source: Getty Images
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Ronwen Williams, known for his remarkable shot-stopping talents and leadership, has reached several career milestones. His impact extends beyond the pitch, motivating young athletes with his story of perseverance and achievement.
Profile summary
| Name | Ronwen Hayden Williams |
| Age | 32 years old (as of 16 January 2025) |
| Date of birth | 21 January, 1992 |
| Place of birth | Port Elizabeth, South Africa |
| Zodiac sign | Aquarius |
| Nationality | South African |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Occupation | Professional footballer |
| Position | Goalkeeper |
| Height | 1.84 m (6 ft) |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Father | Hayden Williams |
| Girlfriend | Roshni |
| Kids | Two |
| Current team | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| Salary | R500,000 ($26,891) per month |
| Social media | Instagram and X (Twitter) |
Ronwen Williams' football career
Ronwen was previously an academy player for Tottenham Hotspur of the English Premier League, the highest in the English football pyramid.
Ronwen was a striker until his uncle, Maurice 'Mokes' Camelio, inspired him to change positions. According to The South African, Williams' father stated:
Ronwen was at about the age of seven when he joined Shatterprufe Rovers. He started as a striker, and that is what many people do not know.
Williams began his journey with SuperSport United in 2004, joining the club’s youth ranks. His first appearance in the CAF Champions League was in January 2012, when he faced Matlama FC. Just a few months later, in May 2012, he made his PSL debut in a match against Free State Stars.
Source: Original
When did Ronwen join Mamelodi Sundowns?
On July 21, 2022, Williams officially joined Mamelodi Sundowns after spending 12 years with SuperSport United. His first appearance for Sundowns came in the opening match of the 2022-23 season against Cape Town City FC.
Reflecting on his move in 2022, Williams noted that he quickly understood he was becoming part of a "winning culture" at Sundowns. He compared Sundowns' approach to that of a Pep Guardiola-coached team. According to The New York Times, Williams remarked:
You have got an owner who wants the best; he gives you everything you need to achieve that. You have got to show up.
In 2023, Williams was key to Mamelodi Sundowns winning the African Football League title. He saved crucial penalties against Al Ahly and CA Petróleos de Luanda.
Ronwen Williams' journey with Bafana Bafana
The goalkeeper made his international debut against Brazil in 2014. He was elected captain in 2021 and guided the side to a respectable third place at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Source: Getty Images
On February 3, 2024, Williams delivered a heroic performance in South Africa's 2023 AFCON quarter-final clash against Cape Verde. He saved four penalties during the shootout, securing Bafana Bafana’s spot in the semi-finals for the first time since 2000.
Ronwen Williams' awards
In a historic occasion for South African football, Williams was nominated for the Yachine Trophy in 2024. He was the first goalie from an African club to be eligible for this coveted honour, which acknowledges the world's finest goalkeepers. According to SABC Sport, he finished in ninth place. Williams said this on the Ballon d'Or red carpet.
It is an honour and a privilege for me to be recognised among the greats. It is a massive achievement. I still get goosebumps.
The 2024 Caf awards
Ronwen Williams, the goalkeeper for Mamelodi Sundowns, performed admirably at the Caf Awards in December 2024. According to Goal.com, he won several awards, including Interclub Player of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Year. Other individual awards include:
- Africa Cup of Nations Best Goalkeeper: 2023
- Africa Cup of Nations Team of the Tournament: 2023
- African Football League Best Goalkeeper: 2023
- PSL Footballer of the Season: 2024
- DStv Premiership Goalkeeper of the Season: 2024
- COSAFA Men's Goalkeeper of the Year: 2024
Ronwen Williams' wife
Ronwen has been in a long-term relationship with his girlfriend, Roshni. They began dating as teenagers, welcomed their son Mikael in their early twenties, and later had a daughter.
Source: Instagram
In a 2019 interview with the Sowetan, Ronwen Williams discussed how his partner, whom he dubbed his "first lady," has had a good influence on his life. He informed the publication:
I have known my girlfriend since I was very young, so she knows me from when I had nothing.
Ronwen Williams' salary
Following the departure of colleague Bongani Zungu, Williams now has the club's and league's most-paid contract. He earns approximately $26,891 per month. According to News Hub 360, his net worth is about $280,000.
Ronwen's first car was a BMW 1 Series. He shared that he chose to invest in property and other opportunities, a decision influenced by SuperSport coach Gavin Hunt's advice to avoid purchasing expensive cars.
Frequently asked questions
Ronwen Williams' extraordinary journey and accomplishments inevitably spark questions about his personal and professional life. The following are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this renowned goalkeeper.
- Who is South Africa's number one goalkeeper? Ronwen Williams is South Africa's first-choice goalkeeper.
- Does Ronwen Williams have a child? He has a son named Mikael.
- Where is Ronwen Williams now? He plays for Mamelodi Sundowns and captains his club and the South African national team, Bafana Bafana.
Ronwen Williams represents South African football's hope and skill. His accomplishments and awards set a standard for goalkeepers across the continent. His rise from a youngster in Port Elizabeth to one of Africa's top football players is a story of perseverance and skill.
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